|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Posted on November 21, 2011 09:59
Community Connections: Giving From The Heart Can Be Magical
BY PAM KETTERING
Yankton Area United Way
Published: Thursday, November 17, 2011 1:12 AM CST
Preparation time for the holidays is here! Decorations have been on display for weeks. Advertisements for toys, food, clothing, you name it; have been splashed on all the media. Concerts and programs have been scheduled. Menus and gift lists have been penciled in. Wish lists are thoughtfully being completed. Santas are eating in preparation to fill their red and white suits. AND some people are getting very nervous because their children’s expectations are far beyond their means.
Now what?
They have closely watched the ads and their income. They have considered how they can scrape enough money together for making something special for the holiday meals. They have tried to cut down on miles to save gas money. They have turned down the temperature in their homes. They have found a small tree to chop down later.
Now what?
The opportunities now abound for caring neighbors to make a magical difference. It starts with raising awareness. It starts with baking a pie, buying a toy or book, or donating money — just for initial ideas!
• The Community Holiday Feast is next Wednesday at the Calvary Baptist Church from 4:30-7 p.m. at no cost. Delivery will be made for shut-ins by calling 760-3170 by this Friday, Nov. 18. There will be enough food prepared to fill those hungry stomachs. MAGIC begins with caring folks baking pies and giving cash donations to buy gravy, potatoes, napkins and other supplies AND volunteering!
• Toys For Kids have the registrations for children 0-18 with expectations of a gift for them this holiday. MAGIC begins with caring folks calling 665-6766 (United Way & Volunteer Services) and asking for a family to “adopt.” The child(ren) has written a short wish list to assist with the shopping. Educational, durable items are recommended for all ages. Electronic or battery operated items are not recommended. Sometimes the adopters have a gift for the parents or box up everyday supplies that help make ends meet. More and more families have replaced family gift exchanges by adopting families — they shop and then wrap the presents at their family holiday gathering.
• Concerts at the local schools and college are abundant from now until a few days before Christmas. Voices and instruments are practicing for that upcoming performance that entertain all ages. Check the school calendar and community calendars for times and places.
• Mrs. Santa Reading at the Yankton Mall is occurring on Saturday, Dec. 17, from 1:30-3 p.m. Mrs. Santa will read stories to the children as well as hand out age-appropriate books. MAGIC begins when children are hovering close and listening intently as pictures and words bring wondrous images to their imaginations!
• Homemade gifts, food, invitation to dinner, book of monthly gifts of labor, visits to the lonely, reading mail for the disabled, rides to see the beautiful light displays, craft activity for children of single parent are a few ideas to work MAGIC for others. The possibility and opportunity to make MAGIC begins in each person’s ability to open their eyes, ears and hearts to people with whom they interact or connect with programs that offer answers.
Make this a MAGICAL holiday season for others as you, by doing heartfelt acts, are receiving abundant MAGIC. Benjamin Franklin said, “When you are good to others, you are best to yourself.”
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|